PERSONAL REFLECTION ON USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION

One critical area where technology proves its importance is in enhancing student engagement. According to a study by Kay (2012), the interactive and multimedia elements of technology capture students' attention and cater to diverse learning styles. Digital tools, such as interactive simulations and educational games, offer a dynamic and engaging learning experience, fostering increased interest and participation among students.

To test the above statement, I performed a research in which I approached the graphing chapter of mathematics in two different ways for two classes. In the first class, I conducted the lesson in a conventional way where I asked the students to graph quadratic equations using a graph paper while in the second class, I asked students to graph the same equations using the online graphing tool called GEOGEBRA. I realized that the students who drew the graphs using the online tool were trying to draw the graphs of equations which were not even covered in the syllabus and they started to as questions about the reason for the shape of certain equations graphs.

Furthermore, the use of technology in education has been linked to improved learning outcomes. Hattie (2011) discusses the concept of Visible Learning, emphasizing that when technology is integrated strategically into the curriculum, it can positively impact student achievement. Interactive whiteboards, online collaboration tools, and educational software are cited as examples that contribute to creating an enriched learning environment.

In addition to fostering engagement and improving learning outcomes, technology in education addresses the need for personalized learning experiences. Tomlinson (2017) argues that technology allows for differentiation in instruction, enabling educators to tailor materials and activities to individual student needs. Adaptive learning platforms and online assessments are highlighted as tools that provide personalized feedback and adapt to the pace of each learner.

Moreover, the accessibility of information has been significantly augmented through technology. Digital resources and online platforms provide students with access to a wealth of information, promoting independent research and exploration. This aligns with the idea of preparing students not only as consumers but also as producers of knowledge in the digital age (Leu et al., 2011). Accessibility of information will be more discussed in my next post by reference to the article of CONNECTIVISM by George Siemens.

Furthermore, I would like to elaborate more on my personal experience and reflection on the importance of use of technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated the integration of technology in education, reshaping the way students learn and educators teach.

The COVID-19 pandemic thrust the importance of technology in education into the spotlight, acting as a catalyst for transformative shifts in the educational landscape. As physical classrooms closed globally, technology emerged as the lifeline that sustained continuity in learning. Virtual learning platforms, video conferencing tools, and collaborative software became indispensable, ensuring that education persisted amid widespread disruptions.

Technology facilitated remote learning, allowing students to access educational content from the safety of their homes. Online classes, recorded lectures, and interactive materials enabled the adaptation of traditional teaching methods to a virtual environment. This shift was not merely a temporary response but a revelation of technology's potential to transcend physical barriers and provide educational access in challenging circumstances.

Furthermore, the pandemic underscored the importance of digital literacy as an essential skill. Students and educators alike had to swiftly adapt to digital tools, cultivating a new level of technological fluency. The crisis emphasized that technology is not just a supplementary aspect of education but a fundamental component, bridging gaps and ensuring educational resilience during unprecedented times. As we navigate the post-pandemic era, the lessons learned underscore the lasting significance of technology in fostering adaptable, accessible, and inclusive educational practices.